Strategic planning process

RECEived NOV 7 Office of Desegregation 95 IMonitoring A Vision For The Future Little Rock School District Proposed Strategic Plan 1996-2001A mission statement is a broad statement of the unique purpose for . which the district exists and the specific function it performs. Mission Statement The mission of the LRSD is to equip all students with the skills and knowledge to realize their aspirations, think critically and independently, learn continuously and face the future as productive contributing citizens. This is accomplished through open access to a diverse, innovative and challenging curriculum in a secure environment with a staff dedicated to excellence and empowered with the trust and support of our community. 1 Beliefs are a statement of the district's fundamental convictions, values, and character. Beliefs We believe.... All people have equal, inherent worth. Every individual can learn. Higher expectations coupled with effort stimulate higher levels of performance. Attitude always influences behavior. All citizens share the responsibility to ensure that quality education is available to the children of our community. Excellence in education and fairness for all (equity) are both compatible and inseparable. The family is a primary influence development of a child. on the Educated and involved citizens are necessary to sustain the health of a democracy. Accepting and utilizing cultural and racial diversity enrich and strengthen the community. Education can enhance every aspect of a person's life. With every right comes a responsibility. Actions speak louder than words. Self-worth allows each individual to aspire to excellence and develop his/her unique capabilities. Every individual is responsible for contributing to the general welfare of the community. 2 Objectives are an expression of the district's desired, measurable end results of student success, performance and/or achievement. Objectives By the year 2001, average student performance for every identified sub group (race, gender) will be at or above the 75th percentile as measured by standardized tests. No later than the year 2001, no fewer than 9 out of 10 students will meet or exceed LRSD standards of performance identified in the core curriculum. Each student will set and achieve challenging educational goals tailored to his or her interests, abilities and aspirations related to meaningful work, higher learning, citizenship or service to others. 3 Strategies are the means by which the district can accomplish its objectives. Strategies In partnership with our community, we will establish standards in the core curriculum (reading/language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies) at each appropriate level, as well as develop the means of assessing whether students have met these standards. We will develop the means to successfully implement or modify the Desegregation Plan in order to achieve unitary status as well as the objectives in the Strategic Plan. We will develop and implement a broad range of alternatives and interventions for students scoring below the 50th percentile on standardized tests or who are at serious risk of not achieving district standards in the core curriculum. We will design and implement internal and external communication plans to improve public trust and community support. We will build strong partnerships with other community agencies and organizations to address external issues that are interfering with students' learning. our 4 Strategies (Continued) We will develop and implement personnel policies and procedures to ensure all employees are making optimal contributions to our mission and objectives. We will design a comprehensive staff development system to best achieve the mission and objectives in the Strategic Plan. We will construct a delivery system that allows us to plan and implement individualized educational goals for all LRSD students that does not predetermine or limit options at an early age. We will develop and implement plans to establish financial stability and achieve the strategic objectives of the district. We will develop and implement plans to restore public confidence in the safety and security of our schools. We will integrate appropriate technology to help achieve our objectives, as well as effectively operate the district. We will redesign our educational system, its organizational structure and decision-making processes to best achieve the mission and objectives of the Strategic Plan. (No action team necessary, due to dependency on the other strategies.) 5Parameters are the guiding principals that establish the framework within which the district will accomplish its mission. Parameters * No new program or service will be accepted unless it is consistent with the Strategic Plan, benefits clearly exceed costs, and provisions are made for staff development and program evaluation. No program or service will be retained unless benefits continue to exceed cost and it continues to make an optimal contribution to the mission. School-based decision making will always be consistent with the Strategic Plan as well as the Desegregation Plan. We will not tolerate behavior that diminishes the dignity or self-worth of any individual. We will maintain a positive fund balance in the operating budget. We will not tolerate ineffective performance by any employee. * Contractual items will be subject to negotiation. 6 PVe will develop the means to successfully implement or modify the Desegregation Plan in order to achieve unitary status as well as the objectives in the Strategic Plan. Strategy 2 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 2. X 1. Identification of LRSD desegregation plan obligations. X 2. Determine plan requirements/obligations which are not feasible or educationally sound. X 3. Establish a timetable and plan for complying with all feasible obligations. X 4. Seek joint plan modifications and recognition of completed obligations through consultation with ODM, Joshua Intervenors, Knight Intervenors, all for the purpose of enabling the LRSD to achieve goals and objectives. X 5. Declare intention to cooperate with and establish working relationships with Joshua Intervenors, Knight Intervenors, and ODM. 8 We will develop and implement a broad range of alternatives and interventions for students scoring below the 50th percentile on standardized tests or who are at serious risk of not achieving district standards in the core curriculum. Strategy 3 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year JZl X 1. Adopt a policy statement providing for intervention as an operative and vital part of elementary school instruction. X 2. Expand comprehensive Reading Recovery/Literacy Support early intervention services for K-3 students who are at risk of not developing literacy skills. X 3. Develop an intervention team at each school which provides systemic support including professional development for teachers which enables all children to sustain adequate yearly progress through grade 3. X 4. Promotes school-wide reform and ensures access of children (from the earliest grades) to effective instructional strategies and challenging academic content. Content will include intensive complex thinking and problem-solving experiences through an integrated literature-based program. X 5. Implement middle school programming to provide a developmentally appropriate educational environment for the academic success of adolescents. X 6. Redesign the delivery system at the alternative learning center to improve academic skills and to address the social, emotional, and behavioral needs of the students. 9 Strategy 3 Action Plan (Continued) X 7. Train requesting teachers in the Math/Science crusade (K-12) to better implement the Goal 2000 plan and give them the background for following the guidelines set forth by the NCTM (National Council of Teachers of Mathematics) and the related science organization. X 8. Provide extended day academic programming for students at risk of failing and in need of extra assistance in core subjects. X 9. Implement a three week summer program for identified at risk students in the middle level grades in order to provide an on-going three year experience in science and math. 10VJe will design and implement internal and external communication plans to improve public trust and community support. Strategy 4 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Communicate key issues with consistency to our audiences. X 2. Increase credibility with teachers, principals, and members of the district's staff through more timely and accurate information flow to and from LRSD's central administration. X 3. Achieve positive relationships with key members of the media in order to help ensure a consistent flow of accurate information to our various audiences. X 4. Expand the use of available tools to positively influence the perceptions of parents, as well as other audiences within the district, with regard to the quality of education received by all children within the LRSD's schools. X 5. Shift focus away from the district back to its individual schools (as well as to their students and teachers). X 6. Create a system that ensures a constant flow of "success stories" from the individual LRSD schools into the Districf s Office of Communications for release to the public. X 7. Create positive spokespersons out of parents, teachers and other influential members of the community. 11 Strategy 4 Action Plan (Continued) X 8. Improve the existing system that was designed to direct the media toward the appropriate information source within the District 12We will build strong partnerships with other community agencies and organizations to address external issues that are interfering with our students' learning. Strategy 5 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Expand the role of Partners in Education to include the development of business and community partner coalitions with neighborhood school emphasis in an effort to expand resources which address external issues interfering with students' learning. X 2. Improved opportunities for young people to develop positive interactions with adults who are mentors. X 3. Increase the level of grant funding available to the LRSD to utilize in partnerships with community agencies and organizations to address external issues that interfere with students' learning. X 4. Design and develop a joint working agreement with LRSD and community agencies and organizations that ensures availability of and access to comprehensive support services for all LRSD students. 13 V^e will develop and implement personnel policies and procedures to ensure all employees are making optimal contributions to our mission and objectives. Strategy 6 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year JZl X 1. Develop job descriptions that are consistent and specific. X 2. Design recruitment/entrance standards to attract superior personnel who excel academically or otherwise in their major fields of study, experience, or interest X 3. Develop a fair, equitable compensation system for all employees that is objective, fairly administered and tied to the performance of the school. X 4. To maximize student-teacher contact time, decrease substitute personnel expense to the district and enhance the morale of all district personnel. X 5. Create monetary and non-monetary incentives to reward district employees who work for the betterment of our students. X 6. Provide staff with opportunities to pursue educational endeavors that will promote high educational standards within the district X 7. Develop an evaluation process which accurately assesses employee performance and serves as a tool for professional growth. X 8. Develop a termination process which is fair, equitable and effective. [ Contractual items will be subject to negotiation.] 14 We will construct a delivery system that allows us to plan and implement individualized educational goals for all LRSD students that does not predetermine or limit options at an early age. Strategy 8 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X lA. Prepare for implementation of site-based management to allow individual schools choice to do what is best to meet the needs of their students. X IB. Implement site-based management to allow individual schools choice to do what is best to meet the individual needs of their students. X 2A. Identify a variety of school innovation options throughout the district to be offered to best meet the needs of students at individual schools. X 2B. Develop a variety of innovation options throughout the district to be offered to best meet the needs of students at individual schools. X 2C. Implement a variety of irmovation options throughout the district to be offered to best meet the needs of students at individual schools. X 3A. Establish a seed school with University Teacher Education ties to do ongoing research in the practical applications of various school programs and options, to keep current with literature in the field, to provide a site for exemplary individualized education for a student body representative of the LRSD student population, to do training by demonstration and example as well as precept, and thus continually adding to the list of potential programs and options for educational individualization. 16 Strategy 8 Action Plan(Continued - Page 2) X 3B. Support and maintain operation of seed school. X 3C. Utilize the seed school to support teacher education and the testing of new educational programs and strategies designed to maximize individualized education. X 4. Allow students in grades K-12 to move at their own developmental and intellectual pace as teachers discover their learning styles to eliminate permanent ability tracking. X 5A. Acquire alternative assessment methods that allow teachers to determine a students actual functioning level so as to provide appropriate programming and to eliminate permanent ability tracking. X 5B. Implement alternative assessment methods that allow teachers to determine a studenf s actual functioning level so as to provide appropriate programming and to eliminate permanent ability tracking. X 6. Strengthen pupil service teams to be utilized as a first line screening mechanism for students evidencing problems so that alternative program options will be implemented for students not requiring Special Education. X 7. Collaborate with the community to offer early childhood programs for children ages 2 to 4 as an option for district patrons, with preference going to low socio economic status (SES) families, to provide experiences and information needed to equalize student preparation. X 8. Cultivate and use the community centralized resources guide (refer to strategy 5) for the individual development of each and every student. 17Strategy 8 Action Plan(Continued - Page 3) X 9. Provide commuruty based services that enable parents, students, and community to work together to further a child's education. X 10. Create an educational climate which encourages parent/ teacher interaction by eliminating major barriers and providing increased opportunities for participation in the learning process. 18We will develop and implement plans to establish financial stability and achieve the strategic objectives of the district. Strategy 9 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Develop strategies to retain and attract students to the LRSD to assure adequate future revenues from sources that will be increasingly based on the size of student population. X 2. Develop a financial committee composed of LRSD personnel and community representatives to function as an advisory committee to the LRSD Board and Superintendent on budget development, monitoring, implementation, and other financial matters. X 3. Develop Board fiscal policy statements and manual to be housed in an official repository addressing revenues, expenditures, millage increase, debt service, monitoring, reporting, facilities planning, and staffing and procedures to effectively communicate to the public, teachers, and administration. X 4. Develop a five year revenue forecast (by month for the first year and annually for years two through five) for the District. X 5. Develop a five year expense forecast (by month for the first year and annually for years two through five) for the District X 6. Revise the process and develop policy on monitoring actual performance compared to budget to include Board briefings, mid-year adjustments and amendments, and report formats. 19 Strategy 9 Action Plan(Continued - Page 2) X 7. Select peer school districts and develop performance indicators for comparison purposes in order to identify areas and possible means for improvement X 8. Establish a committee of District and non-District representatives to monitor proposed legislation and/or regulations and make recommendations for new, or revisions to current, laws and regulations that would impact operations of the LRSD. X 9. Establish a goal to prepare a budget document that will meet the criteria for the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. X 10. Develop resource sharing partnerships with North Little Rock School District (NLRSD) and Pulaski County Special School District (PCSSD). 20We will develop and implement plans to restore public confidence in the safety and security of our schools. strategy 10 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Provide ongoing conflict resolution training and skill development for students. X 2. Improve behavior and safety on school buses and bus stops. X 3. Control access to school buildings, grounds and events. X 4. Implement a staff development plan for all personnel to fully understand safety policies and procedures. X 5. Develop and enhance a system of communication among schools, administration, and the public regarding issues of safety and security. X 6. Inform the public of plan in regard to the following (a) control of drug activity (b) violence prevention (c) campus and bus security
(language that is direct and easy for all to understand). X 7. Develop a credible evaluation plan that will ensure complete and proper implementation. 21 We will integrate appropriate technology to help achieve our objectives, as well as effectively operate the district. Strategy 11 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Define technology in terms of the educational and administrative needs of the LRSD. X 2. Establish a broad based technology advisory board for the LRSD. X 3. Acquire and implement the technology needed to meet current and future instructional and administrative needs of the LRSD. X 4. Assemble a technical staff to implement and support district information technologies, including computer hardware and software applications, networking, computer operations, and audiovisual services. X 5. Design and implement a comprehensive technology training program for all LRSD employees (teachers, administrators, and support staff) that provides appropriate facilities, tools, training, and supplies to maximize effectiveness. X 6. Train students in the use of technology so that they are able to access, evaluate, and apply information. X 7. Train students to use current technology to increase competencies in problem solving, specific content areas and critical thinking skills. 22 NOV 08 85 11 Ml c*'t P.l Pulaski County Special School District 925 East Dixon Road Little Rock, Arkansas 72206 (501) 490-2000 Post Ofhce Box 8601 Ltitle Rock, Arkansas 72216 FAX (501) 490-0483 Date: Time: , jj:s5' /4. /H. To: ^n//y From
y/y Number of Pages (including cover sheet): 7' Message SCHOOL CAPACITY INFORMATION PULASKI COUNTY SPECIAL SCHOOL DISTRICT October 17, 1935 HIGH SCHOOL SCHOOL CAPACITY Jacksonville Mills North Pulaski Oak Grove Jr./Sr. Robinson Sylvan Hills -IO2S 780 900 935 506 998 JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOLS SCHOOL CAPACITY Puller Jacksonville North Jacksonville South Northwood Robinson Scott (Alternative Sch.) Sylvan Hills 945 737 727 1014 514 125 925 ELEiVIEMTARY SCHOOL SCHOOL CAPACITY Adkins Arnold Drive Baker Bates Bayou Meto Cato Clinton College Station Crystal Hill Dupree Fuller Harris Jacksonville Landmark Lawson Oak Grove Oakbrooke Pine Forest Pinewood Robinson Scott Sherwood Sylvan Hills Murrell Taylor Tolleson ASO 420 328 768 66A 600 800 340 820 465 526 525 785 599 365 476 555 440 656 500 280 492 519 444 570Office of Desegregation Monitoring United States District Court Eastern District of Arkansas Ann S. Brown, Federal Monitor 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501)376-6200 Fax (501) 371-0100 Date: Novel er 27. 1995 From: in Brown To: Leon Modeste and Linda Young Subject: LRSD Draft Proposed Strategic Plan My staff and I have reviewed the proposed strategic plan you sent me earlier this month, as 1 had indicated we would in my November 7 memo to you. Our comments and questions are listed below. We applaud your efforts and those of the many employees and volunteers who participated in the strategic planning process. We heartily wish you every success in the plans implementation, and look forward to the progress it should foster. 1. The document reflects lots of hard work and contains many excellent proposals. It is general enough to allow for changing circumstances but precise enough to outline specific actions. 2. Tlie proposals are complementary to the LRSDs desegregation plan and goals and should work well in tandem with the districts desegregation commitments. 3. One idea that struck us as particularly valuable was that proposed in Strategy 8. Establishing ties to higher education entities and having those schools conduct ongoing research into the practical applications of a variety of educational programs is a type of input and evaluation that should be very helpful to the district. 4. Some of the strategies could be quite expensive, those for technology and the summer program for at-risk students for example. How does the district expect to finance these and the other recommendations? 5. The objective to raise average student performance on standardized tests to the 75th percentile or above for every subgroup is very ambitious. However, given the nature of standardized testing and the student population of the LRSD, it is also probably highly unrealistic. 6. Achieving the proposals will obviously involve additional types and phases of planning. How and when does the district plan to attach specific implementation steps, dates, responsible persons, benchmarks, and evaluation criteria to each of the proposals?Office of Desegregation Monitoring United States District Court Eastern District of Arkansas Ann S. Brown, Federal Monitor 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501)376-6200 Fax (501) 371-0100 November 27, 1995 Dr. Henry P. Williams Little Rock School District 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Hank: Ive recently received and read a copy of the LRSD Proposed Strategic Plan for 1996-2001. The plan obviously represents a tremendous amount of work on the part of many vitally interested and involved people. It contains many excellent ideas and laudable objectives and fits well with the districts desegregation plan and goals. 1 congratulate you, your staff, and the citizen volunteers on completion of this worthwhile planning process. When do you expect to announce more details about how the strategic plan will be carried out, such as the execution steps and dates, budgetary allotments, the names of those responsible for various aspects of implementation, and the evaluation criteria? 111 appreciate receiving this information as soon as its available so my staff and 1 can be on the lookout for ways to positively highlight your strategic plan in action. 1 wish you every success in bringing the strategic plan to life. Please let me know how 1 may be of assistance. Sincerely yours, Ann S. Brown cc: Members, LRSD Board of Education JOHN W. WALKER, P.A. RECS3WD JOHN W. WALKER RALPH WASHINGTON MARK BURNETTE AUSTIN PORTER JR. ATTORNEY AT LAW 1723 BROADWAY LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS 72206 TELEPHONE (501) 374-3758 FAX (501) 374-4187 JAN 1 I 1996 Office of Desegregaficri Mor lung [Delivered by Fax & U.S. Mail] January 9,1996 Honorable F. G. "Buddy" Villines Pulaski County Judge County Administration Building 201 S. Broadway Little Rock, AR 72201 Mr. Jim Dailey Mayor of the City of Little Rock, Arkansas City Hall 500 W. Markham St. Little Rock, AR 72201 Mr. Patrick Henry Hayes Mayor of the City of No. Little Rock P.O. Box 5757 No. Little Rock, AR 72119 Dear Sirs
I was privileged to attend a meeting of the Board of Directors of New Futures this morning. That organization has budgeted funds to support what is known as the "Little Rock School District's Strategic Plan". Mayor Dailey is a member of that Board of Directors. I was pleased to know that the support was being given to the Strategic Plan but 1 am somewhat curious to know whether the same support has been given to the plans of desegregation which were entered into between the three Pulaski County School Districts, the Arkansas Department of Education, the teachers, and the black plaintiffs in the school case. Letters of support of the Desegregation Plans were promised along with good faith efforts of public officials to make the plans work. The purpose of this letter is to ascertain the specific efforts and budgets which have been adopted to support the parties' desegregation efforts.Page Two Honorable F.G. "Buddy" Villines Mr. Jim Dailey Mr. Patrick Henry Hayes January 9,1996 Would each of you kindly provide me with any letters of support or ordinances or resolutions of support, including financial support, which have been directed toward the desegregation efforts. I would also like for you to delineate the specific problems, if any, which you perceive to be in need of corrective action. I particularly invite Mayor Dailey's reply. Thank you for your cooperation. Sincerely, Joi Walker JWW:lp co: Dr. Henry Williams Mr. Bobby Lester Mr. James Smith Ms. Ann Brown All Counsel of Records A Little Rock School District wSS S .- To: From: Subj ect: January 22, 1996 Ann Brown, Federal Monitor Office of Desegregation Monitoring iX inda Young and ^ieon Modeste Strategic Plan Facilitators Office Little Rock School District Strategic Plan JAH 2 4 1996 In accordance with our telephone conversation, we are responding to your request for an update on the Strategic Plan. We are most grateful to you and your staff for taking the time to read the LRSD Strategic Plan. Also, we deeply appreciate your support and thoughtful comments. There were two specific questions that you were concerned about: First, what are our expectations of funding action plans that are expensive? It is our intention to implement a funding strategy with the support of our advisory committees. We will be seeking a variety of funding sources. However, this is not anticipated for this first year. Second, a response to your request regarding implementation: We are currently making preparations to move into the most difficult part of "implementation phase". the Strategic Plan, which is the Dr. Williams has assigned key administrators to specific strategies (See Attached). On January 30 and 31, 1996, Dr. Howard Fedema will facilitate the "Mutual Expectations Workshop". At that time the key administrators will began to design their work through the lens of the strategic plan. If you or any of your staff wish to attend the workshops, please feel free to inform us 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501)324-2000 Response to Strategic Plan page 3 Attachment strategy Assigned Administrator #1 Curriculum Gene Parker, Supervisor Communications, English, ESL, and Foreign Languages/ Acting Director of Reading #2 Desegregation Russ Mayo, Associate Supt. of Desegregation #3 Scores Below 50% Victor Anderson, Asst. Superintendent/Secondary #4 Communications Suellen Vann, Director, Communications #5 Community Partnerships Debbie Milam, VIPS Coordinator *6 Personnel Brady Gadberiry, Director Labor Relations #7 Staff Development Sterling Ingram, Director Staff Development #8 Equity Patty Kohler, Director Div. of Except. Children #9 Finances Fred Smith, Manager Support Services #10 Safety JoEvelyn Elston, Director Pupil Services #11 Technology David Beason, Director Information Services Strategic Plan Facilitators Linda Young, Liaison New Futures/Restructuring Director Leon E. Modeste, Special Asst, to Superintendents LnTLii Rock School Distkiof OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT April 15. 1996 Walter Hussman Publisher Arkansas Democrat-Gazette P. O. Box 2221 Little Rock, AR 72203 Dear Walter: Public education has been, and will continue to be, an important concern among residents of this community. It is critical, therefore, that dialogue exists between educators and the community. It is equally important that media representatives meet periodically with educational leaders to discuss the issues which we must address. In fact, the Tri-District Desegregation Plan calls for regular meetings between a media coalition and the superintendents of the three public school districts. I would like to invite you, or your representative, to meet with Bobby Lester, Pulaski County Special School District Superintendent
James Smith, North Little Rock School District Superintendent
and me on Wednesday, April 24, at 8:30 a.m. The meeting will be held in the Board Room of the Little Rock School District Administration Building, 810 West Markham. I look forward to meeting with you, other media representatives, and the other local superintendents. Sir/cerely, :<
nry P. Williams Superintendent of Schools cc: Bobby Lester James Smith 810 West Miirkliain Sired l.ltLle R<x:k, ArkajiMUH 72201 (501)321-2(X)0 * Little Rock School District 810 West Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 April 18, 1996 TO: All Little Rock School District Personnel FROM: Linda Young, Internal Coordinator, Strategic Planning ^^B-c^on Modeste, internal Coordinator, Strategic Planning THROUGH: enry r. Willi
is, Superintendent of Schools RE: Questions Following the April 5th Strategic Planning Update As promised, we are providing responses to the questions and thoughtful concerns that were articulated by staff members across the district following the closed circuit telecast about strategic planning. We are very pleased with the interest in and positive comments about our district-wide effort to ensure continued success for our students into the 21st century. What follows is a response by Dr. Williams to your questions. We encourage each of you to continue to think about the strategies addressed through our strategic planning effort and to become involved in the work that must be done to ensure that our mission becomes our reality. Again we encourage you to become involved by volunteering to serve on one of the numerous stratgic planning teams that are currenly being formed. Listed below are the lead administrators responsible for the implementation of the strategic plan. Please feel free to contact us or any of the strategy leaders if you wish to become involved. Leon Modeste, Internal Coordinator Linda Young, Internal Coordinator 324-2011 324-2112 I Strategy | 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Title Core Curriculum Standards Implement Desegregation Plan Students Testing Below 50% Communication Plans Community Partnerships_____ Personnel Policies Staff Development____________ Equitable Delivery System Financial Stability____________ School Safety_________________ Use of Technology Leader Gene Parker Russ Mayo_____ Vic Anderson Suellen Vann Debbie Milam Brady Gadberry Sterling Ingram Patty Kohler Fred Smith JoEvelyn Elston David Beason I Telephone# | 324-0510 ~ 324-2429 324-2005 324-2020 324-2297 324-2118 324-2130 324-2190 324-2003 324-2162 324-2056Little Rock School District Strategic Planning Update April 18, 1996 Follow Up Questions And Answers Is it really possible by the year 2001 for average student performance for every identified sub group to be at or above the 75th percentile as measured by standardized tests'? Those of us who have taken a course in measurements and statistics have probably come away from that experience believing that this objective is impossible to achieve. Why? The answer is simply because of the nature of statistics. But, the strategic planning committee wanted to set objectives that would really stretch us and force us to grow into a new way of thinking about what can happen for students. This objective is a desired objective. Our hope is that through the strategic planning effort -all of us- administrators, teachers, and support staff-will come together to create an optimum learning environment for all students. The intent of this environment will be to nurture all of our students in ways that encourage them to achieve their personal maximums. The strategic planning committee has identified ambitious strategies for moving the district toward realization of this objective. Specifically, strategies 1, 3, 7, and 8 address comprehensive systemic changes designed to accomplish this through standards for curriculum and assessment, innovative strategies for improving below grade level performance, staff development, and site-based management. Finally, do I believe that the intent of this objective is obtainable? Yes - absolutely. As we work together throughout the district, building on a common belief system, we can achieve our mission. Student behavior and discipline issues in our classrooms and schools remain major concerns for most of us. Where among the twelve strategies are these concerns addressed? These concerns are actually addressed throughout the entire strategic plan. However, they are exphcitly addressed in strategy 10 which focuses on the development and implementation of actions aimed at restoring public confidence in the safety and security of our schools. These actions include providing ongoing conflict resolution training and skill development for our f '71^ J LriTLE Rock School District APf !996 OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT j AA pri1l 11 5c , 11 n9n9n6 | Of D: Dear Colleagues: As a foUow up to the Strategic Planning. Update on Friday, April Sth, I would like to take this opportunity to share with you my personal excitement regarding the progress that has been made in the strategic planning effort. I am encouraged by the positive comments and the thoughtful questions that I have received since our closed circuit broadcast. From the update, you no doubt gleaned that we have undertaken a comprehensive effort to take our school district into the 21st century. The secret to our future success hes in the development of specific action strategies based on a clear vision for the future, rather than the more familiar long range planning which perpetuates, ultimately, an unsatisfactory status quo. The eleven strategies represent a monumental opportunity to create a world class school system that will sustain and challenge all students as they journey through our educational programs. Specifically, I am extremely pleased to report that we are making progress on developing standards for student performance, curricular content, and delivery systems. These standards will ensure the continuity between and among the components of learning experience necessary to produce successful learners. In doing so, they will provide us with clear direction about what we need to do, how we need to do it
and, for a change, they will provide us with information about what we must have in order to do it well. Through the strategic planning effort we have made significant progress in identifying appropriate strategies for students who are performing below grade level. We plan to share more information about this in the very near future through revised policies, procedures, and the identification of new options for early intervention and ongoing academic support. Several of you have expressed concerns about the issues of disciphne, safety, and security. Let me assure you that as we continue to move through the strategic planning process, we will focus on discipline, safety, and security as 810 West MaiWiam Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 324-2000 RECESVSO Little Rock School District 810 West Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 APR i 3 1996 Office of Desegregation Monitoring April 18, 1996 TO: All Little Rock School District Personnel FROM: Linda Young, Internal Coordinator, Strategic Planning .^SK/^on Modeste, Jnternal Coordinator, Strategic Planning THROUGH: enry P, Willii s. Superintendent of Schools RE: Questions Following the April 5th Strategic Planning Update As promised, we are providing responses to the questions and thoughtful concerns that were articulated by staff members across the district following the closed circuit telecast about strategic planning. We are very pleased with the interest in and positive comments about our district-wide effort to ensure continued success for our students into the 21st century. What follows is a response by Dr. Williams to your questions. We encourage each of you to continue to think about the strategies addressed through our strategic planning effort and to become involved in the work that must be done to ensure that our mission becomes our reality. Again we encourage you to become involved by volunteering to serve on one of the numerous stratgic planning teams that are currenly being formed. Listed below are the lead administrators responsible for the implementation of the strategic plan. Please feel free to contact us or any of the strategy leaders if you wish to become involved. Leon Modeste, Internal Coordinator Linda Young, Internal Coordinator 324-2011 324-2112 I Strate^ i 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 ________________Title Core Curriculum Standards Implement Desegregation Plan Students Testing Below 50% Communication Plans Community Partnerships_____ Personnel Policies Staff Development____________ Equitable Delivery System Financial Stability____________ School Safety_________________ Use of Technology Leader Gene Parker Russ Mayo_____ Vic Anderson Suellen Vann Debbie Milam Brady Gadberry Sterling Ingram Patty Kohler Fred Smith JoEvelyn Elston David Beason ] Telephone# | 324-0510 324-2429 324-2005 324-2020 324-2297 324-2118 324-2130 324-2190 324-2003 324-2162 324-2056Little Rock School District Strategic Planning Update April 18, 1996 Follow Up Questions And Answers Is it really possible by the year 2001 for average student performance for every identified sub group to be at or above the 75th percentile as measured by standardized tests'? Those of us who have taken a course in measurements and statistics have probably come away from that experience believing that this objective is impossible to achieve. Why? The answer is simply because of the nature of statistics. But, the strategic planning committee wanted to set objectives that would really stretch us and force us to grow into a new way of thinking about what can happen for students. This objective is a desired objective. Our hope is that through the strategic planning effort -all of us- administrators, teachers, and support staff-will come together to create an optimum learning environment for aU students. The intent of this environment will be to nurture all of our students in ways that encourage them to achieve their personal maximums. The strategic planning committee has identified ambitious strategies for moving the district toward realization of this objective. Specifically, strategies 1, 3, 7, and 8 address comprehensive systemic changes designed to accomplish this through standards for curriculum and assessment, innovative strategies for improving below grade level performance, staff development, and site-based management. Finally, do I believe that the intent of this objective is obtainable? Yes - absolutely. As we work together throughout the district, building on a common belief system, we can achieve our mission. Student behavior and discipline issues in our classrooms and schools remain major concerns for most of us. Where among the twelve strategies are these concerns addressed? These concerns are actually addressed throughout the entire strategic plan. However, they are explicitly addressed in strategy 10 which focuses on the development and implementation of actions aimed at restoring public confidence in the safety and security of our schools. These actions include providing ongoing conflict resolution training and skill development for our Page Two October 10, 1996 I hope you make it clear as soon as possible and in as widespread a manner as possible that we are not in disagreement of this fundamental principle. Sincerely, W. Walker JWW:lp cc
Ms. Ann Brown Dr. Roosevelt Brown Mr. Rett Tucker A Vision For The Future Little Rock School District Proposed Strategic Plan 1996-2001 A mission statement is a broad statement of the unique purpose for which the district exists and the specific junction it performs. Mission Statement The mission of the LRSD is to equip all students with the skills and knowledge to realize their aspirations, think critically and independently, learn continuously and face the future as productive contributing citizens. a This is accomplished through open access to diverse, innovative and challenging curriculum in a secure environment with a staff dedicated to excellence and empowered with the trust and support of our community. 1 Beliefs are a statement of the district's fundamental convictions, values, and character. Beliefs Wc believe.... All people have equal, inherent worth. Every individual can learn. Higher expectations coupled with effort stimulate higher levels of performance. Attitude always influences behavior. All citizens share the responsibility to ensure that quality education is available to the children of our community. Excellence in education and fairness for all (equity) are both compatible and inseparable. The family is a primary influence on the development of a child. Educated and involved citizens are necessary to sustain the health of a democracy. Accepting and utilizing cultural and racial diversity enrich and strengthen the community. Education can enhance every aspect of a person's life. With every right comes a responsibility. Actions speak louder than words. Self-worth allows each individual to aspire to excellence and develop his/her unique capabilities. Every individual is responsible for contributing to the general welfare of the community. 2 Objectives are an expression of the districts desired, measurable end results of student success, performance and/or achievement. Objectives By the year 2001, average student performance for every identified sub group (race, gender) will be at or above the 75th percentile as measured by standardized tests. No later than the year 2001, no fewer than 9 out of 10 students will meet or exceed LRSD standards of performance identified in the core curriculum. Each student will set and achieve challenging educational goals tailored to his or her interests, abilities and aspirations related to meaningful work, higher learning, citizenship or service to others. 3 Strategies are the means by which the district can accomplish its objectives. Strategies In partnership with our community, we will establish standards in the core curriculum (reading/language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies) at each appropriate level, as well as develop the means of assessing whether students have met these standards. We will develop the means to successfully implement or modify the Desegregation Plan in order to achieve unitary status as well as the objectives in the Strategic Plan. We will develop and implement a broad range of alternatives and interventions for students scoring below the 50th percentile on standardized tests or who are at serious risk of not achieving district standards in the core curriculum. We will design and implement internal and external communication plans to improve public trust and community support. We will build strong partnerships with other community agencies and organizations to address external issues that are interfering with students' learning. our 4 Strategies (Continued) We will develop and implement personnel policies and procedures to ensure all employees are making optimal contributions to our mission and objectives. We will design a comprehensive staff development system to best achieve the mission and objectives in the Strategic Plan. We will construct a delivery system that allows us to plan and implement individualized educational goals for all LRSD students that does not predetermine or limit options at an early age. We will develop and implement plans to establish financial stability and achieve the strategic objectives of the district. We will develop and implement plans to restore public confidence in the safety and security of our schools. We will integrate appropriate technology to help achieve our objectives, as well Operate the district. We will redesign our as effectively educational system, its 0/^^ organizational structure and decision-making processes to best achieve the mission and objectives of the Strategic Plan. (No action team necessary, due to dependency on the other strategies.) 5In partnership with our community, we will establish standards in the core curriculum (reading/lan^uage arts, mathematics, science, and social studies) at each appropriate level, as well as develop the means of assessing whether students have met these standards. Strategy 1 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Adopt a definition for content standards in the Little Rock School District. X 2. Adopt a definition for performance standards in the Little Rock School District. X 3. Submit the components of performance standard sets in the Little Rock School District. X X 4. Develop performance standards for the Little Rock School District. X 5. Adopt a definition for delivery standards in the Little Rock School District. X 6. Adopt components of delivery standard sets in the Little Rock School District. X 7. Develop delivery standards for the Little Rock School District X X 8. Develop a trainer-of-trainers model for the Little Rock School District to use to train all appropriate human resources on how to implement and achieve the standards. 7 We will develop the means to successfully implement or modify the Desegregation Plan in order to achieve unitary status as well as the objectives in the Strategic Plan. Strategy 2 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Identification of LRSD desegregation plan obligations. X 2. Determine plan requirements/obligations which are not feasible or educationally sound. X 3. Establish a timetable and plan for complying with all feasible obligations. X 4. Seek joint plan modifications and recognition of completed obligations through consultation with ODM, Joshua Intervenors, Knight Intervenors, all for the purpose of enabling the LRSD to achieve goals and objectives. X 5. Declare intention to cooperate with and establish working relationships with Joshua Intervenors, Knight Intervenors, and ODM. 8 We will develop and implement a broad range of alternatives and interventions for students scoring below the 50th percentile on standardized tests or who are at serious risk of not achieving district standards in the core curriculum. Strategy 3 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Adopt a policy statement providing for intervention as an operative and vital part of elementary school instruction. X 2. Expand comprehensive Reading Recovery/Literacy Support early intervention services for K-3 students who are at risk of not developing literacy skills. X 3. Develop an intervention team at each school which provides systemic support including professional development for teachers which enables all children to sustain adequate yearly progress through grade 3. X 4. Promotes school-wide reform and ensures access of children (from the earliest grades) to effective instructional strategies and challenging academic content. Content will include intensive complex thinking and problem-solving experiences through an integrated literature-based program. X 5. Implement middle school programming to provide a developmentally appropriate educational environment for the academic success of adolescents. X 6. Redesign the delivery system at the alternative learning center to improve academic skills and to address the social, emotional, and behavioral needs of the students. 9 Strategy 3 Action Plan (Continued) X 7. Train requesting teachers in the Math/Science crusade (K-12) to better implement the Goal 2000 plan and give them the background for following the guidelines set forth by the NCTM (National Council of Teachers of Mathematics) and the related science organization. X 8. Provide extended day academic programming for students at risk of failing and in need of extra assistance in core subjects. X 9. Implement a three week summer program for identified at risk students in the middle level grades in order to provide an on-going three year experience in science and math. 10We will design and implement internal and external communication plans to improve public trust and community support. Strategy 4 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Communicate key issues with consistency to our audiences. X 2. Increase credibility with teachers, principals, and members of the district's staff through more timely and accurate information flow to and from LRSD's central administration. X 3. Achieve positive relationships with key members of the media in order to help ensure a consistent flow of accurate information to our various audiences. X 4. Expand the use of available tools to positively influence the perceptions of parents, as well as other audiences within the district, with regard to the quality of education received by all children within the LRSD's schools. X 5. Shift focus away from the district back to its individual schools (as well as to their students and teachers). X 6. Create a system that ensures a constant flow of "success stories" from the individual LRSD schools into the Districts Office of Communications for release to the public. X 7. Create positive spokespersons out of parents, teachers and other influential members of the community. II Strategy 4 Action Plan (Continued) X 8. Improve the existing system that was designed to direct the media toward the appropriate information source within the District 12We will build strong partnerships with other community agencies and organizations to address external issues that are interfering with our students' learning. Strategy 5 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Expand the role of Partners in Education to include the development of business and community partner coalitions with neighborhood school emphasis in an effort to expand resources which address external issues interfering with students' learning. X 2. Improved opportunities for young people to develop positive interactions with adults who are mentors. X 3. Increase the level of grant funding available to the LRSD to utilize in partnerships with community agencies and organizations to address external issues that interfere with students' learning. X 4. Design and develop a joint working agreement with LRSD and community agencies and organizations that ensures availability of and access to comprehensive support services for all LRSD students. 13 We will design a comprehensive staff development system to best achieve the mission and objectives in the Strategic Plan. strategy 7 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. To reformulate a district-level Staff Development Planiung Council which will bring together stakeholders to advise and assist in the development of policy for and evaluation of a staff-development system that is site-specific and driven by the three objectives adopted by the LRSD. X 2. To train the Staff Development Planning Council, central administrative staff, and staff at five schools on teaming for school improvement. X 3. To meet the needs and address the problems of school sites through the use of school improvement teams. X 4. To establish a district and community technical assistance network to support school improvement teams. X X 5. To evaluate the staff development system within the district 15 We will construct a delivery system that allows us to plan and implement individualized educational goals for all LRSD students that does not predetermine or limit options at an early age. strategy 8 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year X lA. Prepare for implementation of site-based management to allow individual schools choice to do what is best to meet the needs of their students. X IB. Implement site-based management to allow individual schools choice to do what is best to meet the individual needs of their students. X 2A. Identify a variety of school innovation options throughout the district to be offered to best meet the needs of students at individual schools. X 2B. Develop a variety of innovation options throughout the district to be offered to best meet the needs of students at individual schools. X 2C. Implement a variety of innovation options throughout the district to be offered to best meet the needs of students at individual schools. X 3A. Establish a seed school with University Teacher Education ties to do ongoing research in the practical applications of various school programs and options, to keep current with literature in the field, to provide a site for exemplary individualized education for a student body representative of the LRSD student population, to do training by demonstration and example as well as precept, and thus continually adding to the list of potential programs and options for educational individualization.____________________ 16 Strategy 8 Action Plan(Continued - Page 2) X 3B. Support and maintain operation of seed school. X 3C. Utilize the seed school to support teacher education and the testing of new educational programs and strategies designed to maximize individualized education. X 4. Allow students in grades K-12 to move at their own developmental and intellectual pace as teachers discover their learning styles to eliminate permanent ability tracking. X 5A. Acquire alternative assessment methods that allow teachers to determine a student's actual functioning level so as to provide appropriate programming and to eliminate permanent ability tracking. X 5B. Implement alternative assessment methods that allow teachers to determine a students actual functioning level so as to provide appropriate programming and to eliminate permanent ability tracking. X 6 Strengthen pupil service teams to be utilized as a first line screening mechanism for students evidencing problems so that alternative program options will be implemented for students not requiring Special Education. X 7 Collaborate with the community to offer early childhood programs for children ages 2 to 4 as an option for district patrons, with preference going to low socio economic status (SES) families, to provide experiences preparation. and information needed to equalize student X i 8. Cultivate and use the community centralized resources guide (refer to strategy 5) for the individual development of each and every student._____________________________________________________ 17Strategy 8 Action Plan(Continued - Page 3) X 9. Provide community based services that enable parents, students, and community to work together to further a child's education. X 10. Create an educational climate which encourages parent/teacher interaction by eliminating major barriers and providing increased opportunities for participation in the learning process. 18We will develop and implement plans to establish financial stability and achieve the strategic objectives of the district. strategy 9 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Develop strategies to retain and attract students to the LRSD to assure adequate future revenues from sources that will be increasingly based on the size of student population. X 2. Develop a financial committee composed of LRSD personnel and community representatives to function as an advisory committee to the LRSD Board and Superintendent on budget development, monitoring, implementation, and other financial matters. X 3. Develop Board fiscal policy statements and manual to be housed in an official repository addressing revenues, expenditures, millage increase, debt service, monitoring, reporting, facilities planning, and staffing and procedures to effectively communicate to the public, teachers, and administration. X 4. Develop a five year revenue forecast (by month for the first year and annually for years two through five) for the District. X 5. Develop a five year expense forecast (by month for the first year and annually for years two through five) for the District X 6. Revise the process and develop policy on monitoring actual performance compared to budget to include Board briefings, mid-year adjustments and amendments, and report formats. 19 Strategy 9 Action Plan(Continued - Page 2) X 7. Select peer school districts and develop performance indicators for comparison purposes in order to identify areas and possible means for improvement X 8. Establish a committee of District and non-District representatives to monitor proposed legislation and/or regulations and make recommendations for new, or revisions to current, laws and regulations that would impact operations of the LRSD. X 9. Establish a goal to prepare a budget document that will meet the criteria for the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. X 10. Develop resource sharing partnerships with North Little Rock School District (NLRSD) and Pulaski County Special School District (PCSSD). 20We will develop and implement plans to restore public confidence in the safety and security of our schools. Strategy 10 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Provide ongoing conflict resolution training and skill development for students. X 2. Improve behavior and safety on school buses and bus stops. X 3. Control access to school buildings, grounds and events. X 4. Implement a staff development plan for all personnel to fully understand safety policies and procedures. X 5. Develop and enhance a system of communication among schools, administration, and the public regarding issues of safety and security. X 6. Inform the public of plan in regard to the following (a) control of drug activity (b) violence prevention (c) campus and bus security
(language that is direct and easy for all to understand). X 7. Develop a credible evaluation plan that will ensure complete and proper implementation. 21 Strategy 11 Action Plan (Continued - Page 2) X 8. Train teachers, administrators, and other school support staff to use current technology to increase productivity and maximize effectiveness. X 9. Gather, store, and analyze student data bases used to provide accurate and timely reports. 23IRh. MAY 8 1998 it OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING LnTLE Rock School District OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT May 7. 1998 Ms. Ann Brown, ODM 201 E. Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Brown: The Little Rock School District is preparing to conduct an update session of the Strategic Plan. We believe that the periodic update is vital to successful strategic implementation and to the organization itself. This session will provide an opportunity to review the revised desegregation plan, re-validate priorities, and gain a narrower focus with more intense concentration of effort on significant objectives. The team will also review the progress that has been made in the implementation of the strategic plan over the past months. It is my hope that you will agree to serve on the strategic planning team. The team will meet Thursday, June 4 and Friday, June 5 at St. James United Methodist Church, 321 Pleasant Valley Drive in Jones Hall. On June 4 and 5, breakfast will be available at 7:30 a.m. with the sessions beginning at 8:00 a.m. Sessions will conclude at 9:00 p.m. on June 4 and 5:00 p.m. on June 5. Thank you for your consideration of this matter. Please call Linda Young at 324-2112 to confirm your participation. Sincerely, Kes Carnine Soperintendent 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 824-2000P>. (4*- SiAA-f^ 2 19S8 Little Rock School District OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING June 1, 1998 Ms. Melissa Guldin, ODM 201 E. Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Guldin: Thank you for agreeing to serve on the Little Rock School District Strategic Planning Team. Attached for your review is overview information about the Little Rock School District, a copy of the Strategic Plan, and a copy of the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan. The team will meet Thursday, June 4 and Friday, June 5 at St. James United Methodist Church, 321 Pleasant Valley Drive in the Peck Building, Entrance 6. Breakfast will be available at 7:30 a.m. with the sessions beginning at 8:00 a.m. Sessions will conclude between 9:00 and 10:00 p.m. on June 4 and 5:00 p.m. on June 5. In order to provide full participation from the team and accomplish the work that must be completed, it is important for all members to be present during the entire session. A map of the St. James facility is enclosed for your convenience. The Peck Building is labeled Building Entrance 6 and is located on the East side or freeway side of the building. The meeting will be held in Room 109. If you have any questions, please give me a call at 324-2112. Thanks again. Sincerely, Linda Young New Futures Liaison and Restructuring Director 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501)324-2000DATE: TO: FROM: RE: Little Rock School District November 4, 1998 Strategic Planning Team Members Young, New Futures Liaison J NOV 5 1998 OFJCEOF DESEGREGATION MCMITORINQ D ^3 Strategic Plan Update Session November 10, 1998 7:30 - 5:00 St. James United Methodist Church 321 Pleasant Valley Drive Enclosed are the draft action team recommendations for Strategies Two, Four and Ten as requested by the team in June. Please review the material prior to the meeting on November 10. A special note of clarification, action team ten has developed a new action plan and added steps to several original action plans. The complete list of original and newly developed action steps have been provided for action plans in which additional steps are proposed. An agenda and map of St. James United Methodist Church is also enclosed for your review. Breakfast will be provided at 7:30 a.m. with the meeting beginning at 8:00 a.m. The meeting will be held in Room 109, the same room used for the June session. If you have any questions, please give me a call at 324-2112. Thanks so much for your continued participation in the Little Rock School District. Attachments 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501)324-2000Little Rock School District Strategic Plan Update received November 10,1998 NOV 5 1993 I. Introduction AGENDA OmCEOF DESKRESATIGSMOHnTORfSiS II. Purpose ill. Review Components IV. Presentation of Action Plans V. Discussion of Action Plans VI. Revisit Components VII. Implementation Schedule VIII. Next StepsStrategy 2 Contents page In partnership with our community, we will establish standards in the core curriculum at each appropriate level, as well as develop the means of assessing whether students have met these standards. Content Standards/Performance Standards (Plans 1-4) Plan 1 Results: Adopt a definition for content standards in the Little Rock School District. Plan 2 Results: Adopt a definition for performance standards in the Little Rock School District. Plan 3 Results: Adopt components of performance standards sets in the Little Rock School District. Plan 4 Results: Develop performance standards for the Little Rock School District. Delivery Standards (Plans 5-7) Plan 5 Results: Adopt a definition for delivery standards in the Little Rock School District. Plan 6 Results: Adopt components of delivery standard sets in the Little Rock School District. Plan 7 Results: Develop delivery standards for the Little Rock School District. Standards Training (Plans 8-9) Plan 8 Results: Develop a trainer of trainers model for the Little Rock School District to use to train all appropriate human resources on how to implement and achieve the standards. Plan 9 Results: Ensure parent (family) understanding of the core curriculum standards and how progress will be measured.Action Plan STRATEGY NO. PLAN NO. 2 9 DATE
11/2/98 SPECIFIC RESULTS: Ensure parent (family) understanding of the core curriculum standards and how progress will be delivered. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. ACTION STEP (Number each one) Design and distribute a family friendly brochure that uses clear, straightforward language to describe the core content standards for each grade level at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Distribution opportunities should include pre-registration and/or registration times at each school and permanent displays in each school office, at the central office, and at student assignment with copies available for take home, as well as on the district's web page. Other distribution outlets may include realtors, city offices, including the Chamber of Commerce, and relevant public events. Design a core curriculum standards orientation speakers presentation to be used by district personnel at PTA meetings, open houses at schools, and at community forums. Schedule and publicize core curriculum presentations with question and answer sessions throughout the community, including sites such as churches, community centers, and individual schools, to be presented prior to implementation of the standards. Record and play intermittently such presentations on the districts TV channel. Design and distribute at the beginning of each school year tip sheets for families to use to reinforce and support the teaching and learning of standards at home. Tip sheets should address primary and intermediate grades at the elementary level and the middle school level and should outline family involvement opportunities in student learning. Redesign student report cards and interim progress report forms to accurately reflect student progress in relation to the core curriculum standards and grade or course level benchmarks. (See Plan #4, Action Steps 4-10.) Responsible: Assigned To
starting Date: Due Date: Completed Date: (Shaded areas for management phase) #COST-BENEFIT ANALYSIS STRATEGY NO. PLAN NO. 9 DATE
9/10/98 COSTS Tangible: BENEFITS Tangible: /Annual brochure printing (tri-fold, front/back in house at .20 each for 50,000 brochures) $10,000.00 Families and patrons will be informed about the learning e.xpectations for all students who attend the LRSD. Postage (bulk rate - .20 per brochure) 10,000.00 Speaker presentation kits (25 notebooks with instructions and transparencies at $10 per notebook) 250.00 Families and patrons will get clear, consistent information about the core curriculum standards. Teacher/parent/administrator committees to design tip sheets Families will have written guidelines that show them how to help their children achieve the standards set for their children by the LRSD. - stipends for 40 teachers (5 per core area per elementary and middle schools at $125 per teacher) 5,000.00 Aimual tip sheet printing in house at .20 each for 26,000 sheets 5,200.00 Teacher/administrator committees to redesign report cards and interim progress reports -stipends for 36 teachers (12 per elementary, middle, and high school levels at $175 per teacher) 6,300.00 Assessment and teaching will match and families and students will be provided with a clear picture of student performance in relation to student expectations for achievement. 2 Intangible
Intangible: (Have you considered opportunity costs and return on investment?)STRATEGY 4 Communication Plans We will design and implement internal and external communication plans to improve public trust and community support.Strategy4 Contents Page Plan 1 Results
Communicate key issues with consistency to our audiences. Plan 2 Results: Increase credibility with teachers, principals, and members of the districts staff through more timely and accurate information flow to and from the Little Rock School Districts (LRSD) central administration. Plan 3 Results: Achieve positive relationships with key members of the media in order to help ensure a consistent flow of accurate information to our various audiences. Plan 4 Results: Expand the use of available tools to positively influence the perceptions of parents, as well as other audiences within the District, with regard to the quality of education received by all children within the LRSDs schools. Plan 5 Results: Shift focus away from the.District back to its individual schools (as well as to their students and teachers). Plan 6 Results: Create a system that ensures a constant flow of success stories from the individual LRSD schools into the Districts Office of Communications for release to the public. Plan 7 Results: Create positive spokespersons out of parents, teachers and other influential members of the community. Plan 8 Results
Improve the existing system that was designed to direct the media toward the appropriate information source within the District. Plan 9 Results: Assess and evaluate the communication plan.Action Plan Strategy No. Plan No. 4 9 Specific Results: Assess and evaluate the Communication Flan Date: 10/15/98 # 1 Action Step (Number each one) Assigned To: Starting Date: Due Date: Completed Date: Provide quarterly reports to the Superintendent regarding the status of the COMMUNICATIONS PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS AND, WHERE POSSIBLE, INCLUDE MEASURABLE RESULTS. Compare past and future results of the School Climate/Human Relations Survey TO DETERMINE IF PUBLIC TRUST AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT HAS IMPROVED. Cambridge Management Group, Inc. Responsible: 2 (Sftaded areas for management phase)Cost-Benefit Analysis Strategy No. 4 Plan No. Date: 10/15/98 Costs Tangible: Benefits Tangible: District staff time to prepare reports $-0- Paper/ Distribution $-0- District would have current status of implementation of, and results from, the Communications Plan 9 Intangible: Intangible: Additional reporting requirement which reduces staff time for other responsibilities Provides evidence/assurance that communications efforts are proceeding in an orderly and well-planned manner based on the Communications Plan (Have you considered opportunity costs and return on investment?)October 30, 1998 Dear Strategic Planning Committee Members: The Strategy 10 School Safety team recognizes the need for closer working relationships between the Little Rock School District and the juvenile justice system. For this reason, we support legislation that would require the juvenile justice system to do the following
When a student has been charged with a serious feiony violation and has been incarcerated by the juvenile authorities, the juvenile authorities should be required to contact the school district and advise the school district of the charges pending against the juvenile before the juvenile is allowed to return to school. The Strategy 10 School Safety team believes that the above-proposed legislation would assist the Little Rock School District and the Juvenile Justice System in three ways
1. 2. 3. Juveniles who commit a serious crime may be coming back to the school where the victim may be attending. This would create a problem for the school and the students involved. When a school is not notified that a juvenile has been involved in a serious incident, the school does not have the opportunity to counsel the juvenile before he/she returns to the school setting. Sometimes it might be more appropriate to place the juvenile in an alternative school as opposed to the original school setting. The juvenile would be afforded an opportunity to receive counseling and more individualized academic support. At the same time, the juvenile would be removed from the environment where he/she could be harmed or cause harm. The proposed legislation will assist the district in protecting juvenile offenders and assist the school district in becoming proactive rather the reactive. Sincerely, Action Team #10Strategy 10 Contents Page Plan 1 Results: Provide ongoing conflict resolution training and skill development for students. Plan 2 Results: Improve behavior and safety on school buses and bus stops. Plan 3 Results: Control access to school buildings, grounds, and events. Plan 4 Results: Implement a staff development plan for all personnel to fully understand safety policies and procedures. Plan 5 Results: Develop and enhance a system of communication among schools, administration, and the public regarding issues of safety and security. Plan 6 Results: Inform the public of plan in regard to the following (a) control of drug activity (b) violence prevention (c) campus and bus security
(language that is direct and easy for all to understand.) Plan 7 Results: Develop a credible evaluation plan that will ensure complete and proper implementation. Plan 8 Results: Develop, enhance and improve the communication/distribution and equitable implementation of the LRSD Students Rights and Responsibilities Handbook.Action Plan Strategy No. Plan No. 10 1 Date: 10/30/98 Specific Results: Provide ongoing conflict resolution training and skill development for students. # Action Step (Number each one) Assigned To: Starting Date: Due Date: Completed Date: 2 Evaluate effectiveness of training effort
put in curriculum/classroom instruction. 3 Institutionalize conflict mediation and violence prevention programs in all schools by making them a part of the local Campus Leadership annual review process. Cambridge Management Group, Inc. Responsible:Cost-Benefit Analysis Strategy No. Plan No. 10 1 Date: 10/30/98 Costs Tangible: Benefits Tangible: Staff time involved in developing an Quality indicators of program effectiveness. evaluation instrument for the conflict mediation program. staff time involved in implementing the assessment process. Intangible: Intangible:Action Plan Strategy No. Plan No. 10 2 Date: 10/30/98 Specific Results: Improve behavior and safety on school busses and bus stops. # Action Step (Number each one) Assigned To: Starting Date: Due Date: Completed Date: 8 Assess neighborhood groups to determine interest in participating in a pilot Parent Patrol program for bus stops. Cambridge Management Group, Inc. Responsible:Cost-Benefit Analysis Strategy No. Plan No. 10 2 Date: 10/30/98 Costs Tangible: Benefits Tangible: Staff time $0 Community members involved with school district. Safety and security department VIPS staff Laidlaw staff Intangible: Intangible: Enhances opportunities for community involvement in school district.Cost-Benefit Analysis Strategy No. Plan No. 10 5 Date: 10/30/98 Costs Tangible: Benefits Tangible: Additional resources for expansion and refinement of the School Resource Officer program. SRO program provides additional security. Additional resources (and possible redirection of existing dollars) for expansion of prevention programs such as Officer Friendly. Improved prevention programs at the elementary level Intangible: Intangible: Improved morale of school district staff. Improved public perception of school district. Improved public confidence in the districts commitment to providing a safe and orderly learning climate.LnTLE Rock School District OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT March 1,1999 Ms. Ann Brown 201 E. Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 MAR Z (93 Dear Ms. Brown: OFFICEOF okesregationmonitorjnq I am pleased to share that the Board of Directors of the Little Rock School District approved the Strategic Plan 1998 - 2003 at the January board meeting. Paula Patterson and Diane Vibhaker did an outstanding job of presenting the Strategic Plan recommendations to the Board. A special thank you to Paula and Diane. The work outlined in the plan is proceeding on the timeline that was recommended. The District is actively implementing the major initiatives of campus leadership, middle school implementation, and standards based curriculum development in the core areas, all of which will lead to increased student achievement. I have enclosed a copy of the approved plan. Again, thank you for your commitment and support to the District. Your participation on the Strategic Planning Team is greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Leslie V. Carnine Superintendent Encl. 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 834-2000 Strategic Plan 1998 - 2003 1 A mission statement is a broad statement of the unique purpose for which the District exists and the specific function it performs. Mission The mission of the LRSD is to equip all students with the skills and knowledge to realize their aspirations, think critically and independently, learn continuously and face the future as productive, contributing citizens. This mission is accomplished through open access to a diverse, innovative and challenging curriculum in a secure environment with a staff dedicated to excellence and empowered with the trust and support of our community. 1 Parameters are the guiding principles that establish the framework within which the District will accomplish its mission. Parameters We will not tolerate behavior that diminishes the dignity or self-worth of any individual. No new program or service will be accepted unless it is consistent with the Strategic Plan, benefits clearly exceed costs, and provisions are made for staff development and program evaluation. No program or service will be retained unless benefits continue to exceed cost and it continues to make an optimal contribution to the mission. The Campus Leadership Plan will always be consistent with the Strategic Plan as well as the Desegregation and Education Plan. We will maintain a positive fund balance in the operating budget. We will not tolerate ineffective performance by any employee. * Contractual items will be subject to negotiation. 2Beliefs are a statement of the Districts fundamental convictions, values, and character. Beliefs We believe.... All people have equal, inherent worth. Every individual can learn. Higher expectations coupled with effort stimulate higher levels of performance. Attitude always influences behavior. All citizens share the responsibility to ensure that quality education is available to the children of our community. Excellence in education and fairness for all (equity) are both compatible and inseparable. The family is a primary influence on the development of a child. Educated and involved citizens are necessary to sustain the health of a democracy. Accepting and utilizing cultural and racial diversity enrich and strengthen the community. Education can enhance every aspect of a persons life. With every right comes a responsibility. Actions speak louder than words. Self-worth allows each individual to aspire to excellence and develop his/her unique capabilities. Every individual is responsible for contributing to the general welfare of the community. 3 Objectives are an expression of the Districts desired, measurable end results of student success, performance and/or achievement. Objectives Each student will set and achieve challenging educational goals tailored to his or her interests, abilities and aspirations related to meaningful work, higher learning, citizenship or service to others. By 2003, at least 9 out of 10 students will meet or exceed LRSD standards of performance identified curriculum. in the core By 2003, at least 65% of students in every identified sub-group of race and gender will perform at or above the national average in reading and mathematics on standardized tests
at least 30% will perform at the highest quartile in reading and mathematics on standardized tests
and no more than 10% will perform at the lowest quartile in reading and mathematics on standardized tests. 4 Strategies are the means by which the District can accomplish its objectives. Strategies We will design our educational system, its organizational structure and decision-making processes to best achieve the mission and objectives of the Strategic Plan as well as the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan. In partnership with our community, we will establish standards in the core curriculum (reading/language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies) at each appropriate level, as well as develop the means of assessing whether students have met these standards. We will develop and implement a broad range of alternatives and interventions for students scoring below the 50* percentile on standardized tests or who are at serious risk of not achieving District standards in the core curriculum. We will design and implement internal and external communication plans to improve public trust and community support. We will build strong partnerships with other community agencies and organizations to address 5 Strategy 1 We will design our educational system, its organizational structure and decision-making processes to best achieve the mission and objectives of the Strategic Plan as well as the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan. (Implementation of Strategy 1 will be accomplished through other strategies.) 7 In partnership with our community, we will establish standards in the core curriculum (reading/language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies) at each appropriate level, as well as develop the means of assessing whether students have met these standards. Strategy 2 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 1. Adopt a definition for content standards in the Little Rock School District, (completed) 2. Adopt a definition for performance standards in the Little Rock School District, (completed) 3. Submit the components of performance standard sets in the Little Rock School District, (completed) 4. Develop performance standards for the Little Rock School District, (completed) 5. Adopt a definition for delivery standards in the Little Rock School District, (completed) 6. Adopt components of delivery standard sets in the Little Rock School District, (completed) 1. Develop delivery standards for the Little Rock School District, (completed) 8. Develop a trainer-of-trainers model for the Little Rock School District to use to train all appropriate human resources on how to implement and achieve the standards. 9. Ensure parent understanding of the core curriculum standards and how progress will be measured. X X X X X X X X X X X 8 We will develop and implement a broad range of alternatives and interventions for students scoring below the 50" percentile on standardized tests or who are at serious risk of not achieving District standards in the core curriculum. Strategy 3 Action Plan Year 1 X X X X i Year 2/3 X X X X X Year 4/5 X 1. Adopt a policy statement providing for intervention as an operative and vital part of elementary school instruction, (completed) 2. Expand comprehensive Reading Recovery/Literacy Support early intervention services for K-3 students who are at risk of not developing literacy skills. 3. Develop an intervention team at each school which provides systemic support including professional development for teachers which enables all children to sustain adequate yearly progress through grade 3. 4. Promotes school-wide reform and ensures access of children (from the earliest grades) to effective instructional strategies and challenging academic content. Content will include intensive complex thinking and problem-solving experiences through an integrated literature-based program. 5. Implement middle school programming to provide a developmentally appropriate educational environment for the academic success of adolescents. 6. Redesign the delivery system at the alternative learning center to improve academic skills and to address the social, emotional, and behavioral needs of the students. 9 Strategy 3 Action Plan X X X (Continued) 7, Train requesting teachers in the Math/Science crusade (K-12) to better implement the Goal 2000 plan and give them the background for foliowin
the guidelines set forth by the NCTM (National Council of Teachers of Mathematics) and the related science organization. 8. Provide extended day academic programming for students at risk of failin
and in need of extra assistance in core subjects. ig X 9. Implement a three week summer program for identified at risk students in the middle level grades in order to provide an on-going three year experience in science and math. 10We will design and implement internal and external communication plans to improve public trust and community support. Strategy 4 Action Plan Year 1 X X X X Year 2/3 X X X X X X X X Year 4/5 1. Communicate key issues with consistency to our audiences. 2. Increase credibility with teachers, principals, and members of the Districts staff through more timely and accurate information flow to and from LRSDs central administration. 3. Achieve positive relationships with key members of the media in order to help ensure a consistent flow of accurate information to our various audiences. 4. Expand the use of available tools to positively influence the perceptions of parents, as well as other audiences within the District, with regard to the quality of education received by all children within the LRSDs schools. 5. Shift focus away from the District back to its individual schools (as well as to their students and teachers). 6. Create a system that ensures a constant flow of success stories from the individual LRSD schools into the Districts Office of Communications for release to the public. 7, Create positive spokespersons out of parents, teachers and other influential members of the community. 8. Improve the existing system that was designed to direct the media toward the appropriate information source within the District. 11 Strategy 4 Action Plan (Continued) X 9. Assess the implementation of the communication plans and evaluate their effectiveness. 12We will build strong partnerships with other community agencies and organizations to address external issues that are interfering with our students learning. Strategy 5 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 1. Expand the role of Partners in Education to include the development of business and community partner coalitions with neighborhood school emphasis in an effort to expand resources, which address external issues interfering with students learning. 2. Improved opportunities for young people to develop positive interactions with adults who are mentors. 3. Increase the level of grant funding available to the LRSD to utilize in partnerships with community agencies and organizations to address external issues that interfere with students learning. 4. Design and develop a joint working agreement with LRSD and community agencies and organizations that ensures availability of and access to comprehensive support services for all LRSD students. 13 X X X X X X X X We will design a comprehensive staff development system to best achieve the mission and objectives in the Strategic Plan. Strategy 7 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 1. To reformulate a District-level Staff development Planning Council which will bring together stakeholders to advise and assist in the development of policy for and evaluation of a staff-development system that is site-specific and driven by the three objectives adopted by the LRSD. 2. To train the Staff Development Planning Council, central administrative staff, and staff at all middle schools on teaming for school improvement. 3. To meet the needs and address the problems of school sites through the use of campus leadership teams. 4. To establish a District and community technical assistance network to support campus leadership teams. 5. To evaluate the staff development system within the district. 15 X X X X X X X We will construct a delivery system that allows us to plan and implement individualized educational goals for all LRSD students and that does not predetermine or limit options at an early age. Strategy 8 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X X 1 A. Prepare for implementation of site-based management to allow individual schools choice to do what is best to meet the needs of their students. X IB. Implement site-based management to allow individual schools choice to do what is best to meet the individual needs of their students. X 2A. Identify a variety of school innovation options throughout the District to be offered to best meet the needs of students at individual schools. X 2B. Develop a variety of innovation options throughout the District to be offered to best meet the needs of students at individual schools. X 2C. Implement a variety of innovation options throughout the District to be offered to best meet the needs of students at individual schools. X 3 A. Establish a seed school with University Teacher Education ties to do ongoing research in the practical applications of various school programs and options, to keep current with literature in the field, to provide a site for exemplary individualized education for a student body representative of the LRSD student population, to do training by demonstration and example as well as precept, and thus continually adding to the list of potential programs and options for educational individualization. X 3B. Support and maintain operation of seed school. 16 Strategy 8 Action Plan (Continued) X X X X X X X X X X 3C. Utilize the seed school to support teacher education and the testing of new educational programs and strategies designed to maximize individualized education. 4. Allow students in grades K-12 to move at their own developmental and intellectual pace as teachers discover their learning styles to eliminate permanent ability trackin
g- 5A. Acquire alternative assessment methods that allow teachers to determine a students actual functioning level so as to provide appropriate programmin
and to eliminate permanent ability trackin
g- g 5B. Implement alternative assessment methods that allow teachers to determine a students actual functioning level so as to provide appropriate programming and to eliminate permanent ability tracking. 6. Strengthen pupil service teams to be utilized as a first line screening mechanism for students evidencing problems so that alternative program options will be implemented for students not requiring Special Education. 7. Collaborate with the community to offer early childhood programs for children ages 2 to 4 as an option for District patrons, with preference going to low socio economic status (SES) families, to provide experiences and information needed to equalize student preparation. 8. Cultivate and use the community centralized resources guide (refer to strategy 5) for the individual development of each and every student. 9. Provide community based services that enable parents, students, and community to work together to further a childs education. 10. Create an educational climate, which encourages parent/teacher interaction by eliminating major barriers and providing increased opportunities for participation in the learning process. 17We will develop and implement plans to establish financial stability and achieve the strategic objectives of the District. Strategy 9 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 1. Develop strategies to retain and attract students to the LRSD to assure adequate future revenues from sources that will be increasingly based on the size of student population. 2. Develop a financial committee composed of LRSD personnel and community representatives to function as an advisory committee to the LRSD Board and Superintendent on budget development, monitoring, implementation, and other financial matters. 3. Develop Board fiscal policy statements and manual to be housed in an official repository addressing revenues, expenditures, millage increase, debt service, monitoring, reporting, facilities planning, and staffing and procedures to effectively communicate to the public, teachers, and administration. 4. Develop a five-year revenue forecast (by month for the first year and annually for years two through five) for the District, (completed) 5. Develop a five-year expense forecast (by month for the first year and annually for years two through five) for the District, (completed) 6. Revise the process and develop policy on monitoring actual performance compared to budget to include Board briefings, mid-year adjustments and amendments, and report formats. 7. Select peer school districts and develop performance indicators for comparison purposes in order to identify areas and possible means for improvement. 18 X X X X X X X We will develop and implement plans to enhance public confidence in the safety and security of our schools and to ensure discipline and an orderly learning climate. Strategy 10 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X X 1. Provide ongoing conflict resolution training and skill development for students, parents/family, and staff. ? Improve behavior and safety on school buses and bus stops. X X X X ! i I i J. Control access to school buildings, grounds, and events. 4. Implement a staff development plan for all personnel to fully understand safety policies and procedures. 5. Develop and enhance a system of communication among schools, administration, and the public regarding issues of safety and security. 6. Inform the public of plan in regard to the following (a) control of drug activity (b) violence prevention (c) campus and bus security
(language that is direct and easy for all to understand). 7. Develop a credible evaluation plan that will ensure complete and proper implementation. 8. Develop, enhance, and improve the communication/distribution and equitable implementation of the LRSD Students Rights and Responsibilities j Handbook. I 20 X X 1 I I I T IT X X X X II i_KOv ^/UJ'^h*UinxOh i iUH'b oxz ^LU'UO /< 810 Wp^r Markham ISKI \^\ T T^i. n . .1. An X-iuLie iVMVjS., Direct Phone: Cximniunicarions Office: (50i) 447-1030 (501) 447-1025 DATE: January 23, 2003 UUX OZ.H XU4,d TO
FROM- Central xVrkansas Media Cynthia Kowell, Arkansas Dernocrac-Gazeite Suellen Vann, Director of Communications SDEJECT: Special School Board Meeting Situation MESSACiE: Meiitberf of the Little Rock School District (LRSD) Board of Directors will participate in rhe Strategic Planning .sessions next week. Because more tlian one Board member will participate, we are notifying the media regarding the dates, times and location of die meetings. The Strategic Planning Team will meet at die Greater Second Baptist Church Eeliowship Hall, 5615 Geyer Springs Road, as loUows
Monday, January 27 5 pul Tuesday, January 23 3 aixi Wednesday, Januar
29 8 am Pages Imclucling cover) Ar, Individual A
I o hix # 1 each to a World ot KnowledgeLittle Rock School District OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT February 19, 2003 received FEB 2 0 2003 DESEGflEGATION MONITORING Ms. Ann Marshall Office of Desegregation Monitoring 1 Union National Plaza 124 W. Capitol, Suite 1895 Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ann: I am writing to express my sincere appreciation of your service to the Little Rock School District through your dedicated work as a member of the Strategic Planning Team. You brought sound advice and good insights to the planning process. Enclosed is a draft of the work produced at the January session. We are now following up on your recommended strategies as action teams are formed to develop action plans. Action teams leaders have been appointed for the six strategies and will participate in action team leader training on February 25'^' Action teams will be working over the next 234 months to design detailed plans for each proposed strategy. You will receive a copy of the proposed action plans for your review on May 28^' If you are interested in serving on an action team please contact Linda Austin at 447-1125. We look forward to seeing you at the follow up session on June S* and 6. The session will again be held at Greater Second Baptist Church, 5615 Geyer Springs Road. We will be sending more meeting details closer to the actual meeting date. Again, thank you for your service and commitment to the Little Rock School District. Sincerely, T. Kenneth James, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 447-1002STRATEGIC PLAN INTRODUCTION The Little Rock School District utilizes the strategic planning process as a planning and decision-making strategy to ensure that our students are ready to meet the diverse demands of a changing world. The development and implementation of a Strategic Plan serves as a primary guide. The Little Rock School District Strategic Plan, developed by hundreds of volunteers in the community, was originally adopted in 1996 and updated in 1998. On Jan. 27-29. 2003. a 30-member Strategic Planning Team composed of parents, community members, teachers, students, Board members and school administrators came together to review and update the plan. The Team arrived at consensus in identifying common beliefs, creating a mission for the school system, setting parameters and developing objectives and far-reaching strategies for accomplishing the mission. For each of the strategies identified by the Planning Team, an Action Team will be formed to develop plans for implementation. This step in the process will occur from March 2003 to May 2003. This Is where you can make a difference. The Little Rock School District invites you to participate on an Action Team. Your perspective will help design a school system that will prepare our students for a successful future in a diverse and changing world. Simply complete the attached application of interest and return it to the Little Rock School District. You will be contacted by the Director of Planning and Development. Thank you in advance for your sincere interest and willingness to make a difference. s c s o o 2 n> c > 5 3 2 NJ 05 ro r . o 5^ )B DRAFT: 2003-05 STRATEGIC PLAN Mission Statement of the Little Rock School District PARAMETERS We will not tolerate behavior that diminishes the dignity or self-worth of any individual. We will accept no new program or service unless it is consistent with the Strategic Plan, benefits clearly exceed costs and provisions are made for staff development and program evaluation. We will retain no program or service unless benefits continue to exceed cost, and it continues to make an optimal contribution to the mission. We will ensure school improvement plans are always consistent with the Strategic Plan. We will ensure effective implementation and equitable distribution of technology throughout the district. We will maintain a positive fund balance in the operating budget. We will not tolerate ineffective performance by any employee. I We will honor the provisions identified in the Covenant for the Future. TTie mission of the Little Rock School District, an educational partnership of C ft Si. 7S " c o (Z OQ B> 2 o 3 the entire community, is to prepare and inspire all students to achieve academic excellence and persoruil fulfillment while becoming contributing citizens by offering open access to an innovative, challenging curriculum in a nurturing, disciplined environment that embraces diversity. 73 o 5 B I 3 cS 5- 3 n 3 T. Kenneth James, Ed.D. Superintendent of SchoolsOUR BELIEFS OBJECTIVES STRATEGIES We believe: All people have equal, inherent worth. Every individual can learn. Higher expectations coupled with elfort stimulate higher levels of performance. Attitude always influences behavior. All citizens share the responsibility to ensure that quality public education is available to the children of our community. Excellence in education and fairness for all (equity) are both compatible and inseparable. The family is a primary influence on the development of a child. Each student will be required to set and achieve challenging educational and personal fulfillment goals tailored to his or her interests and abilities related to meaningful work, higher learning, citizenship and service to others. All students will meet or exceed graduation requirements or complete the provisions identified in their individual achievement plans. By 2009, 100% of our students will perform at or above the proficient level identified on applicable state-approved examinations. Little Rock School District Board of Directors Educated and involved citizens are necessary to foster the health of a democracy. Dr. Katherine Mitchell Zone 1 Embracing cultural and racial diversity enriches and strengthens our community. Education can enhance every aspect of a persons life. With every right comes a responsibility. Actions speak louder than words. A sense of self-worth allows each individual to develop unique capabilities and to aspire to excellence. Every individual is responsible for contributing to the general welfare of the community. R. Micheal Daugherty Zone 2 Judy Magness Zone 3 H. Baker Kurrus Zone 4 Larry Berkley Zone 5 Tony Rose Zone 6 Sue Strickland Zone 7 We will develop and implement plans to acquire and effectively utilize the financial resources needed to achieve the strategic objectives of the district. We will hire, train, motivate and evaluate all employees to ensure optimal contributions to our mission and objectives. We will ensure all teachers are using effective, research-based instructional strategies and assessment data to help each student perform well academically. We will build effective partnerships with our community to address economic and social issues that interfere with student learning and success. We will assist and engage parents as full and equal partners in educating their children. We will develop and implement practices and procedures to create optimal learning environments that embrace diversity. Special thanks to the parents, business and community leaders, students. district staff and School Board mem-bers who volunteered their time in January to begin the LRSD Strategic Plan Update process. S s Pi O p. Pi w w Z J O > s H Z O 11 H O I <ED EE <u .1 o = 3O (S cco 1o2 o MO Q "oc y as V O fES Z Z a Xi fig X ra E U < O) <Vu. a = -g OJD C . c 3 9C s E oE I uE <000 cco UI 1 "l I 2 cu 0e0 0c0 'E uu C3 oc 0B0 s Ia s BCS i J 'Sb S wu II Is ^6 1 I <5 I ,2 11 u Sil 2<3 a ts 2 g H-.2 I -- O-o P sa O O =s .1 .5 f-
. Little Rock School District I --------------- OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT July 17, 2003 received Ms. Ann Marshall Office of Deseg. Monitoring 1 Union National Plaza 124 W. Capitol, Suite 1895 Little Rock, AR 72201 JUL 2 1 2003 DESEGREGAWHMONITORIMG Dear Ms. Marshall, Thank you for your participation on the Strategic Planning Team for the Little Rock School District. Your personal commitment of many long hours and thoughtful vision resulted in an outstanding framework for the Strategic Plan. As you know, the next step is to present the draft to the Little Rock School District Board of Education and seek adoption of the proposed Strategic Plan. The presentation is scheduled to occur at the Board meeting at 5
30 p.m. on July 24*^ in the Board Room at 810 West Markham. We hope that you will attend this important meeting, attendance. Please call Linda Austin at 447-1126 to confirm your Enclosed is a copy of the proposed Strategic Plan 2003-2008 that includes the beliefs, mission, parameters, objectives, strategies and action plans. The detailed action steps serve as administrative guidance and do not require Board approval. Therefore, these are not included in this document. You will receive a copy of the detailed action steps in August. Again, thank you for your service and commitment to the Little Rock School District. Donald M. Stewart, Ed.D. Interim Superintendent of Schools 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 447-1002 BECEl>/tU JUL 2 1 2003 desegregation moniiorino A Vision For The Future Little Rock School District Proposed Strategic Plan 2003 - 2008 A. mission statement is a broad statement of the unique purpose for which the district exists and the specific function it performs. Mission Statement The mission of the Little Rock School District, an educational partnership of the entire community, is to prepare and inspire all students to achieve academic excellence and personal fulfillment while becoming contributing citizens by offering open access to an innovative, challenging curriculum in a nurturing, disciplined environment that embraces diversity.Beliefs are a statement of the districts fundamental convictions, values, and character. Beliefs We believe: All people have equal, inherent worth. Every individual can learn. Higher expectations coupled with effort stimulate higher levels of performance. Attitude always influences behavior. All citizens share the responsibility to ensure that quality public education is available to the children of our community. Excellence in education and fairness for all (equity) are both compatible and inseparable. The family is a primary influence on the development of a child. Educated and involved citizens are necessary to foster the health of a democracy. Embracing cultural and racial diversity enriches and strengthens our community. Education can enhance every aspect of a persons life. With every right comes a responsibility. Actions speak louder than words. A sense of self-worth allows each individual to develop unique capabilities and to aspire to excellence. Every individual is responsible for contributing to the general welfare of the community.Objectives are an expression of the districts desired, measurable end results of student success, performance and/or achievement. Objectives Each student will be required to set and achieve challenging educational and personal fulfillment goals tailored to his or her interests and abilities related to meaningful work, higher learning, citizenship and service to others. All students will meet or exceed graduation requirements or complete the provisions identified in their individual achievement plans. By 2009, 100% of our students will perform at or above the proficient level identified on applicable state-approved assessments.Si Parameters are the guiding principals that establish the framework within which the district will accomplish its mission. Parameters We will not tolerate behavior that diminishes the dignity or self-worth of any individual. We will accept no new program or service unless it is consistent with the Strategic Plan, benefits clearly exceed costs, and provisions are made for staff development and program evaluation. We will retain no programs or services unless their benefits continue to exceed cost and they make an optimal contribution to the mission. We will ensure school improvement plans are always consistent with the Strategic Plan. We will ensure effective implementation and equitable distribution of technology throughout the district. We will maintain a positive fund balance in the operating budget. We will not tolerate ineffective performance by any employee. We will honor the provisions identified in the Covenant for the Future.Strategies are the means by which the district can accompiish its objectives. Strategies We will develop and implement plans to acquire and effectively utilize the financial resources needed to achieve the strategic objectives of the district. We will hire, train, motivate, evaluate and retain employees to ensure optimal contributions to our mission and objectives. We will ensure all teachers are using effective, researchbased instructional strategies and assessment data to help each student perform well academically. We will build effective partnerships with our community to address economic and social issues that interfere with student learning and success. We will assist and engage parents and families as full and equal partners in educating their children. We will develop and implement practices and procedures to create optimal learning environments that embrace diversity.We will hire, train, motivate, evaluate and retain employees to ensure optimal contributions to our mission and objectives. strategy 2 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Update and redesign the employment application forms for certified and non-certified positions. X 2. Increase the number of National Board Certified teachers in the Little Rock School District. X 3. Implement an employee referral program for teachers.IVe will ensure all teachers are using effective, research-based instructional strategies and assessment data to help each student perform well academically. strategy 3 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Realign the districts curriculum with the States curriculum frameworks based on the grade-specific information. X X 2. Ensure the implementation of a common core curriculum in all schools that is fully aligned with the districts curriculum standards and those effective research-based instructional strategies included within the Professional Teacher Appraisal System (PTAS). X 3. Establish research methodology to investigate the relationship of *PTAS scores with academic gains by students on approved measures of achievement. X 4. Investigate the relationship of *PTAS scores with academic gains by students on approved measures of achievement. X 5. Include *PTAS implementation indicators as a component on the formal evaluation of the Principals Appraisal System. X 6. Ensure inter-rater reliability of the *PTAS Assessment Process. X 7. Develop high quality professional development activities, including models and resources for professional development, which are aligned with *PTAS and the districts curriculum.X X 8. Develop school improvement plans that guide daily work and activities and are based specifically on the needs reflected in student assessment data and that incorporate effective, research-based instructional strategies and high quality professional development. X X 9. Develop a relational student database. X X 10. Develop a web-based system for disseminating and reporting student data to teachers, administrators and parents. *1 Use of PTAS evaluation subject to approval of the LRSD Board of Directors and Classroom Teachers Association.We will build effective partnerships with our community to address economic and social Issues that Interfere with student learning and success. strategy 4 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Lead a coalition of community partners to improve the service delivery systems to enhance academic, social and economic opportunities for students and their families. X 2. Design, implement and sustain an assets-based out of school program for all students to include: Health and fitness Academic enrichment Mentoring Arts and culture Leisure time activities Homework help and tutoring Character development activities X 3. Establish, in collaboration with the community, a health task force to enhance an infrastructure for coordinated school health system to improve health status and reinforce healthy behaviors with PreK-12 students.We will assist and engage parents and families as full and equal partners in educating their children. Strategy 5 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Establish a family advisory group. X 2. Develop parent and family involvement vision. X X 3. Create opportunities to assist and engage parents as full and equal partners in the education of their children. X X 4. Develop a wide-ranging parental communication system for a diverse mix of parents of children in the school system. X X 5. Establish a parent and family information resource center in each school. This plan is consistent with Arkansas Legislative Act 603 of 2003 We will develop and implement practices and procedures to create optimal learning environments that embrace diversity. strategy 6 Action Plan Year 1 Year 2/3 Year 4/5 X 1. Establish building level, school-wide positive behavioral/ social skills support systems for students and staff that address discipline. X 2. Establish small learning communities in secondary schools that provide nurturing and supportive environments for all students. X 3. Provide every student the opportunity to form a continuous relationship with a caring adult throughout students school career. X 4. Ensure all students receive support to succeed academically in their educational endeavors, PreK-12. X 5. Implement the Personalized Career/Education/Planning (PCEP) process at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. X 6. Establish a transition program that ensures the successful assimilation of students from level to level and campus to campus. X 7. Collaborate with area businesses to provide workbased learning opportunities for students. X 8. Improve family involvement in students school activities. I X 9. Improve communication with families and students. X 10. Provide customer-friendly, professional environment on every campus. This plan is consistent with Arkansas Legislative Act 603 of 2003Arkansas Demcx:raf:^(i^azcttc | FRIDAY, APRIL 14, 1995 M.. A I mia DaaV Mowanan*** 1'**' LRSD will use TV to involve public The Little Rock School District will use its cable television channel over the next week to explain plans to develop long-term operations for the district and to recruit volunteers to help with that planning. Information on the strategic plan will be broadcast on cable television Channel 4 in Little Rock at 9 a.m. today and again at 2 p.m. Beginning Monday, the district will broadcast an hourlong program on the strategic plan. That video will be shown at 8:15 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. each workday next week The tape is of a community meeting earlier this month on the planning process. The school district is seeking more than 200 people to serve on 11 action teams. To learn more or to volunteer, people should contact Linda Young at the school district Administration Building at 810 W. Markham SL in Little Rock. The teams will begin work this spring on plans for the school board to consider in October.8B TUESDAY. APRIL 18,1995 Arkansas Democrat '^(gazette Tucker vetoes bill giving teachers 3 more days to prepare BY ELIZABETH CALDWELL Democrat-Gazette Oapitot Bureau Public school-teachers will not get an additional three days to plan for the 1995-96 school year. Gov, Jim Guy Tucker vetoed the bill Monday that granted the extra days. Senate Bill 539 by Senate Education Committee Chairman Lu Hardin, D-Russellville, would have reduced the number of days that teachers have contact with students from 178 to 175 during the next school year. Tucker said that would amount to a reduction of more than $14 million in teaching time. For students having difficulties or students in courses such as foreign languages, this reduction of time in contact with teachers can be very harmful," Tucker wrote in a veto letter released Monday. Hardin said he was extremely disappointed." He said the bill was intended to send a message to teachers that we believe they are professionals." Hardin said the le^slation arose out of a meeting with Russellville teachers, who asked for more time to comply with a 1991 act requiring major curriculum changes. - Tucker said he has asked Gene Wilhoit director of the General Education Division of the state Department of Education, to work with the state Board of Education on ta^eted waivers. Hardin said waivers might be a solution if Tucker and Wilhoit will take an active role in encouraging districts to apply. The key here is morale," Hardin said. Tucker vetoed another bill Monday that would have changed the way Southland Greyhound Park at West Memphis distributes money from racing days that are set aside for charity. Because there was not an accompanying appropriations bill, none of the money actually would have been available. Tucker said. Currently, Southland contributes about S500.000 annually for indigent health programs. House Bill 1946 by Rep. Ben McGee, D-Marion, would have set aside 3200,000 of the money for emergency medical services for Crittenden, Cross. Lee, Mississippi. Poinsett and St. Francis counties. It was just an oversight, McGee said of the missing ap- propriations bill. Other vetoes Tucker an- nounced Monday were: HB 1267 by Rep. Keith Wood. D-Hope. which would have exempted the state Physical Therapy Board from certain laws concerning professional services contracts. Tucker said the bill would have exempted the agency from purchasing, personnel, budgetary and accounting regulations designed to ensure the proper expenditure of public funds. HB 2127 by Rep. Claud Cash. D-Trumann, which would have licensed mobile manicurist units. Tucker said the state Board of Cosmetology requested the veto because of increased administrative costs and the increased risk of the spread of nail fungi. HB 2087 by freshman Rep. Sue Madison, D-Fayetteville. which dealt with cruelty to animals. HB 1269 by McGee, which would have exempted contractor licensing surety bonds from income. sales and use taxes. SB 236 by Sen. Jay Bradford. D-Pine Bluff, which would have made it illegal to replace insurance policies over and over again to receive higher commissions. The following bills were vetoed because similar bills already have been signed into law: HB 1872 by Rep. Larry Goodwin, D-Calamine. which would have increased the waste tire fee on truck tire sales. HB 1207 by freshman Rep. Ted Thomas. R-Little Rock, which would have allowed juveniles with two previous felony convictions to be tried as adults. These bills were vetoed Friday: HB 1556 by Rep. Bob McGinnis. D-Marianna. which would have required small and insufficiently funded police and fire pension funds to be administered by the Arkansas Local Police and Fire Retirement Systems. Similar legislation already has been signed into law. SB 726 by freshman Sen. John Brown. R-Siloam Springs, which dealt with the release from escrow of funds paid to providers under the state Continuing Care Provider Regulation Act Tucker said he needs more time to study the issue./. SUNDAY, JULY 16, J. "LR schools to outline long-range plih The IJttlA Rrv*1r .^hzw\l _______:ii______. a * I Little Rock School District teams will report on their worl wm The teams are developing^Yec- nvities and the development of a riculum and raise student?' tet P enhance school desegrega- 5^ V c- tion, establish financial stability-in
i& the school district, train staff/tm- public, will be broad- prove school safety and expand television in Little the use of technology . More than 200 volunteer 'and P^^P^^''es finm almost a district staff members are serving zen strategip nlann.n^ octicM on the action teams. will present a status report iW^esday on desegregation ac- long-range strategic plan for oper- dozen strategic planning action ^.r J 5Arkansas Democrat SR O^azcttc FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 1995 -5 LRSD team addresses I compliance Brainstorming tickles desegregation decree BY MARION GAMWLL Democrat-Gazette Staff Vrtter About half the Litle Hock School District Strategic Planning Team No. 2 mei at Hall High School on Thursday to begin working on a plan of action that will comply with a court-ordered desegregation decree. The Little Hock datrict is involved in a 12-year-ld federal school desegregaion lawsuit. While the distfct operates under a court-jpproved desegregation plan witten in 1989. parts of the plainre open to change. The team is one ofa dozen citizen committees hdping to develop a long-range strategy for the district. All conmittees will present their reiommen- dations to the school roard in the fail. Seventeen people were at the meeting. The teams Jerry Peters led a long brainstorming session where members made more than 50 proposals for meeting their objective, which Peters defined as developng the means to successfulb' implement or modify the cesegrega- tion plan in order b achieve unity as well as conply with the (federal court) phn. Members suggesUd, among other things: Encouraging onmunity and parental involveiaent. Analyzing the feasibility of different approaches. Compiling demographic and educational inforaation. Working closel
with neighborhood groups. Defining school district responsibility more charly. Baker Kurrus said he team needs to bring aboad more black members to "broden its base. Kurrus said tie team should have an outlim of proposed actions by the eid of the next meeting, set for Jily 13. Al that session, Hus Mayo, assistant superintencent for desegregation, will pnsent results of a study on howthe district can comply with he court plan. Mayos office is acepting proposals from the piblic for modifying the plan. The members briefV talked about U.S. Supreme Courts decision this month the limiting federal judge abilities to propose remedes in a Kansas City, Mo., deegrega- tioii case. While the <ase differs significantly fron Little Rocks, team membw John t Burnett said, the high -ourt "is sending a strong messige that courts in administeing decrees have gone too far and need to stick more ebsely to improving the originjl problem. A heated discussiot of the value of neighborhoodschools and the prevalence of inequal . treatment of black stulents in I the school system lastd about half an hour after thi meet- ing*s official adjounment. KurruS said the team rill discuss those matters in nore detail in July.Arkansas Democrat/^(ijinzelk f . . THIIRSnAY IIILY.2Q-.19a5 What must LRSD do? 2,097 things Desegregation suit spawns obligations BY CYNTHIA HOWELL Dnrrw.ral Gnzette EducaWon Writer When Little Rock School District ollicials can't sleep, they may count desegregation obligations instead of sheet). Dr. Russ Mayo, the school district's associate superintendent for desegi egation, told a group of about 60 school district cmployee.s and connnunily members Wednesday night that the district has 2,097 individual desegregation obligations. Mayo announced the count during a short presentation on the sta tus of the districts desegregation effoi'Is. He acknowledged that he doesn't know the answer to the desegregation question everyone asks: When will the Little Rock disliict be released from federal court supervision in the 12 year old Pulaski County desegregation lawsuit? "I don't know, but we're closer than we've ever been before," Mayo said, adding that the district will ask for release from supervision on some obligations at an Aug. 30 court hearing before U.S. District Judge Susan Webber Wright. Wright monitors the district's compliance with its desegregation plan. According to Mayo.s count, the district ha.s completely complied with 42 percent of its obligations, or 695 of the 2,097 items. Another 1,078 of the obligations, ,52 percent, are ongoing commilmenLs, such as racially balancing enrollments at each school. 'The district is just beginning to by to meet 74 obligations, Mayo said. Another ,50 were overlooked in the past and are being added to the districts list of things to do. Most 1,784 of the districts obligations are contained in the desegregation plan.s that district ofti ciaLs wrote in 1908 and 1989. The 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals at St Ix>nis ultimately approved those plans in I9t)2. The district has its own plan and an interdistrict plan written by all the parties in the lawsuit. Once the parties agreed to the plans and the courts approved them, the plans became binding. The remaining obligations are the result of court orders issued by Wright and the 8th Circuit and of recent agreements negotiated among the three school districts and the attorneys for the black children and the teacher unions, who are intervenors in the case. The district will never meet ,some of the obligations, Mayo said, because of changed circumstances, shilling demographics, changes in laws or better methods of doing things.Arkansas Democrat
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